[David]

When I see ads for pre-ban Glock mags, some say "metal lined" or "non-metal lined" mags.

In general, the cost for "non-metal lined" Glock mags are cheaper...why?

Can someone please explain the pros and cons of each type of pre-ban magazine?

:confused: :confused: :confused:

Thanks...

[WonderNine]

Because the first generation non-metal magazines do not drop free while the second and third generation metal lined magazines do.

[dsk]

The early non-full metal lined (NFML) mags actually bulged when fully loaded, so they wouldn't drop free of the gun unless empty. Most folks seem to prefer the full metal lined (FML) because they don't bulge. Aside from that the quality of one is as good as the other. Since I am loathe to drop my expensive pre-ban magazines right onto the ground it doesn't matter to me either way. I have both types.

[litework]

dsk,

Your NFML mags drop when they aren't loaded? You must have a full size mag. I've had a couple of G23's that came with factory NFML mags, and they won't drop free when empty. The fit is too snug.

[Hkmp5sd]

My 1st generation Glock 17 magazines do not drop free when empty either. With a little practice, stripping the magazine out with the off hand as it leaves the gun becomes second nature.

[Blueduck]

Having gone through several G-22, G-17, and G-23 FML mags I'd have to caveat the above with *most* empty FML mags drop free from *most* guns.

This is the reason you don't see FML or NFML in most ads anymore. Lot of people were upset that they bought a "Drop Free" mag and found out it didn't...

[Nero Steptoe]

Just so there's no confusion, Glock's never made a non-metal lined (all plastic) mag. The NFML mags are lined on three sides; the FML, of course, four sides.

I also have both kinds and don't really have a preference.